Mean annual sea level

The mean annual sea level is calculated by regression of the annual mean value of the sea level over many years. It has a practical value, as it is used to decide the actual depth based on information in navigational charts.

At least 30 years of measurements are used to produce the regression line, which can then be used to estimate sea level both forwards and backwards in time.

Since the mean annual sea level can be calculated, it is used as that year’s datum value from the first day of the year.

The black regression line in the diagram shows the mean annual sea level for 120 years at the measurement station Ratan north of Umeå. Enlarge Image

Deciding the depth on a navigational chart

The value of the mean annual sea level is used in practice as a reference level for actual depths represented in Swedish navigational charts. These always refer to the mean annual sea level for a particular year calculated in this way, and this is specified on the chart.

If you know the amount of land rise for a year, you can calculate the depth on a chart for that year. The navigational charts sometimes indicate the actual sea level value for stations along the coast in relation to the annual mean sea level.

Other countries use other reference levels. For example, the United Kingdom use the predicted level of the lowest astronomical tide, as it is very rare that the actual sea level is lower than this.

Published
Aug 10, 2010

Last updated
Mar 20, 2017

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SMHI's activities in the marine area is extensive; observation, research, data products and services.